Summer Reading Challenge 2026 - ‘Read to the Beat’

Children across Cheshire West and Chester are invited to turn up the volume on reading this summer as the popular Summer Reading Challenge returns to libraries from Saturday 4th July.

This year’s theme, ‘Read to the Beat’, celebrates the joy of music and storytelling, encouraging children to explore how books and music can inspire creativity, imagination and self-expression.

From toe-tapping tales to stories full of rhythm and rhyme, the Challenge invites children to discover a world where words and music come together to spark imagination and bring stories to life.

The Summer Reading Challenge is a fun, free way for children to enjoy reading over the school holidays. Whether it’s a library book, eBook or eAudiobook, there’s something for every interest and reading level – with this year’s collection featuring a wide mix of fiction, non-fiction, poetry and graphic novels.

Libraries across the borough will once again host a vibrant programme of activities and events throughout the summer, offering families plenty of opportunities to get involved, get creative and keep reading.

Children aged 4 to 12 can sign up at their local library or online from “Sign-Up Saturday” on 4 July and collect a special starter pack to begin their reading journey.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Director of Environment and Communities, Maria Byrne said:

“I know how much children across our borough look forward to the Summer Reading Challenge each year, and ‘Read to the Beat’ is a brilliant theme to get even more young people involved.

“Reading and music both have the power to inspire, build confidence and bring people together. This year’s Challenge is a fantastic way for children to stay engaged, have fun and discover new interests over the summer holidays.”

The aim of the Challenge is for children to read six books over the summer, or set their own reading goal. Those who complete the Challenge will receive a certificate and medal, while younger children can take part in the Mini Challenge designed especially for under fours.

As well as rewards for reading, families can look forward to a packed summer of library activities, alongside regular crafts and story sessions delivered by local library teams.

The Summer Reading Challenge has been running since 1999 and helps prevent the summer reading ‘dip’ by keeping children engaged with books while schools are closed. Delivered in partnership with public libraries, it provides a fun and inclusive way for children to build confidence and enjoy reading for pleasure.

Last year, 4699 children across Cheshire West and Chester took part, reading an impressive 113,191 books over the summer holidays.

Following on from the success of Adults Read Two, 11 to 17-year-olds can now join a new Challenge called “Teens Read Two”. Following the same format as “Adults Read Two”, two books need to be read and reviewed in order to enter a prize draw. There will be a £50 book voucher for one lucky winner.

For more information or to sign up, visit: 

https://www.cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk/read

It is free to join the library, and children can sign up in person, online or over the phone. Members can borrow books, eBooks, eAudiobooks, magazines and more, as well as access free Wi-Fi, computers and a range of activities throughout the year.